Marlene (Davis) Bates

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” Those were the words Marlene Davis Bates heard from her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. After 88 years on this earth, Marlene completed her time on earth on May 11, 2023. Her remarkable life was noteworthy in six qualities. Marlene as The Church Matriarch; Friend; Prayer Warrior; Mentor, Mother, Grandmother, and Great-Grandmother most of all; Marlene was the Woman of Faith Who was a faithful Servant of Jesus.

A Celebration of Life Worship Service in memory of Marlene Bates will be on Saturday, May 13 at 2:00 pm at Lamb’s Chapel. Entombment will be at Florence Memorial Gardens.

Visitation will be Saturday, at Lamb’s Chapel beginning at 1:00 p.m. before the service.

She leaves behind a son, Dr. Denny (Myra) Bates, and a daughter, Tamara B. (Alan) Rhodes, three grandchildren: Matt Rhodes, Jordy (Josey), and Allison (Matt) Thomas and two great-grandchildren (Robert and Polly Rhodes). Marlene was born in Norway, South Carolina. She was predeceased by her father (Norval Davis), mother (Ailene Davis), a brother (Norval Davis Jr), brother-in-law (Phin Free), and a sister (Mary Yvonne Davis Free)

Marlene’s faith in Jesus was not only her life’s passion but it was evident with everyone who knew her that she loved Him and them abundantly. If Marlene prayed for you, count yourself in a crowd of many who felt special because you were. Using her Bible and Prayer Journal, to be included in her circle of prayer meant you mattered to her. Marlene had several fond memories of overseas mission trips and a special vacation trip she took with her sister, Mary. A world traveler (due to being the spouse of a military man), Marlene was tasked not to only pack their worldly possessions but to make sure her two kids were not left behind in twenty years of moving. It took a strong woman to fly two young children over the Pacific Ocean to the Philippines ALL BY HERSELF.

Marlene lived alone for many years, but she did not live life alone. Some of her dearest friends over the years were affectionately called, “The Praying Posse”: Cynthia Finklea, Arneatha Harrell, Susie Hall, Joanne Gladden, and Diane Brown.

Marlene’s family wishes to express our deepest thanks to Paige Welch and her compassionate staff at Heritage Home of Florence.

You are invited to sign the guestbook at www.laytonandersonfh.com

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